While performing a closing count, the CST notices a missing lap sponge. What should the CST do next?

When a missing lap sponge is identified during a closing count, the next step should be to re-count the laps. Re-counting helps ensure that all surgical materials are accounted for before closure, which is critical for patient safety. This action confirms whether the sponge is actually unaccounted for due to a miscount or if it has been mistakenly overlooked in the existing count.

Completing a thorough recount allows the team to take the necessary measures to locate the missing sponge, and it minimizes the risk of leaving a foreign object inside the patient's body. Addressing any discrepancies in counts before proceeding with the closure is a standard protocol in surgical practices.

Subsequent actions, such as notifying the surgeon or continuing with the procedure, should only occur after confirming that all instruments and materials are correctly accounted for through the recount. This highlights the importance of methodical checks during surgical procedures to maintain patient safety and prevent complications.